Expand+How much will it cost in the Republic of Ireland?
We believe cost shouldn’t be a barrier to achieving your potential. That’s why we work hard to keep the cost of study as low as possible and have a wide range of flexible ways to pay to help spre...

Hide-How much will it cost in the Republic of Ireland?
We believe cost shouldn’t be a barrier to achieving your potential. That’s why we work hard to keep the cost of study as low as possible and have a wide range of flexible ways to pay to help spread the cost.

Fees are paid on a module-by-module basis – you won't have to pay for the whole of your qualification up front.

A qualification comprises a series of modules, each with an individual fee. Added together, they give you the total cost.

Most OU students study part time at a rate of 60 credits a year.

Our current fee for 60 credits is £3,228*.

Our current fee for 120 credits, which is equivalent to a year's full-time study, is £6,456*.

At current prices, the total cost of your qualification would be £12,912*.

*The fee information provided here is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2023. Fees normally increase annually in line with inflation and the University's strategic approach to fees.

Additional costs
Study costs
There may be extra costs on top of the tuition fee, such as set books, a computer and internet access.

Residential schools
This qualification has option modules that include learning events (like field schools, lab schools and residential schools). For these schools, you may have to pay an additional charge (see module descriptions for further information). You must also pay for your travel to and from the venue.

Due to the ongoing pandemic, we may replace face-to-face events with online alternatives.

Expand+There are no formal entry requirements to study this qualification. However, you are responsible for obtaining permission to use your workplace as a basis for your studies prior to registering for the first module.

Also, to successfully complete t...

Hide-There are no formal entry requirements to study this qualification. However, you are responsible for obtaining permission to use your workplace as a basis for your studies prior to registering for the first module.

Also, to successfully complete the first module you must:

be engaged in suitable full-time or part-time employment – either paid or voluntary

have permission to carry out work-based learning tasks in your work setting

confirm that the work you submit is based on your practice in that setting

have regular access to a computer connected to the internet.

Further detailed information will be sent to you once you have registered for the module.

Expand+This flexible qualification enables you to develop lifelong learning skills that will open doors to further study and career development. You can choose from a wide variety of fascinating modules in any subjects you like, depending on your interests ...

Hide-This flexible qualification enables you to develop lifelong learning skills that will open doors to further study and career development. You can choose from a wide variety of fascinating modules in any subjects you like, depending on your interests and career aspirations – including work-related modules to help you in your current role and enhance your future employability.

Key features of the course

Gain an understanding of your subjects in ethical, social, intellectual, academic and employment contexts

Develop critical and reflective awareness of your own learning and professional practice

Learn to be creative and open to new possibilities – especially in the workplace

Builds a solid foundation for further study

A nationally recognised qualification in its own right, this foundation degree is also equivalent to the first two-thirds of an honours degree.

Expand+This foundation degree has two stages, each comprising 120 credits.

You’ll start Stage 1 with a 30-credit modules work-based learning module, followed by a 30-credit introductory module of your choice.

You’ll finish Stage 1 with a further ...

Hide-This foundation degree has two stages, each comprising 120 credits.

You’ll start Stage 1 with a 30-credit modules work-based learning module, followed by a 30-credit introductory module of your choice.

You’ll finish Stage 1 with a further 60 credits chosen from a wide range of modules.

In Stage 2, you’ll study 90 credits chosen from a wide range of modules before finishing your degree with a further 30-credit work-based learning module.

See 'Course Web Page' link below for more information on modules.

Expand+Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:

Knowledge and understanding.
Cognitive skills.
Practical and professional skills.
Key skills.

The level and depth of your learning grad...

Hide-Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:

Knowledge and understanding.
Cognitive skills.
Practical and professional skills.
Key skills.

The level and depth of your learning gradually increases as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; e-learning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.

Expand+Skills for career development
This foundation degree course can help you to develop your existing career, or be a passport to a whole new one. Its flexibility particularly suits people with multi-faceted work roles, and anyone needing to develop the...

Hide-Skills for career development
This foundation degree course can help you to develop your existing career, or be a passport to a whole new one. Its flexibility particularly suits people with multi-faceted work roles, and anyone needing to develop their skills, knowledge and understanding to manage changes in their current job or future career path. Unlike more traditional courses, the Foundation Degree in Combined Professional Studies enables you to tailor your study to your current employment or to the sector you hope to enter in the future. You will develop enthusiasm for learning and professional development; understanding of your subjects in a broad social, academic and employment context; the skills of critical analysis and synthesis; and reflective awareness.

Career relevance
This foundation degree is relevant to huge range of different careers and career paths. You will have the opportunity to design a personalised study programme, allowing you to develop skills needed to help you in your current workplace, or to work towards a complete change in career.

Exploring your options: see 'Course Web Page' link below for further information.